[phil21]

Pretend prestige. They have the connections and power but not pedigree.

As someone without a college degree in tech, and who has attempted but failed to get a tradition “corporate” job based on skills and track record I can sort of understand. Not the same thing at all, but you’d be amazed (or not?) at how much importance some folks put on having a piece of paper even in casual social settings in some circles. Actual skills need not apply.

[WalterBright]

It would seem to be hard to convince someone you had skills in a social setting. Hence the use of a proxy.

[lazide]

Sometimes it’s also a flex to have to certificate but clearly not have the actual skills.